We have spent a week in Amsterdam staying right in the heart with our son Lars and his wife Derya. We are bunking down in their apartment and what a great spot it is on a canal.
We were here last year so just keen to explore more of the city. We have rented a couple of bikes as it seems the way to get about. It must be the cycle capital of the world!
First few days the weather was hot – one day 35 degrees C. But I’m not complaining.
We had a tour of the Royal Palace. Originally built as the city town hall and opened in 1655. Then converted into a Royal Palace for Napoleon’s brother in 1805.
They use to put people on public trial to be executed.
Helle and I had a tour of the old Heineken factory which opened in 1873. It doesn’t operate any more.
Lars and Derya’s apartment is fabulous- light, and recently renovated looking over a canal.
Amsterdam is full of life and just great to get out and absorb everything.
We checked out where Lars worked and met a few of his colleagues. The company is Aquablu. They manufacturer and distribute healthy flavored drink dispensors throughout Europe. Lars provides technical support to all
It was World Pride week in Amsterdam. Being Amsterdam the floats were floating the canals. Quite a spectacle.
We cycled over to the Northern side of Amsterdam. It has its own flavour.
We took a pancake boat cruise – which was right up Lar’s alley. Stuff your face with as many pancakes as possible – he was in heaven!
The area where we caught the boat was interesting – industrial and bohemian.
Amsterdam is a wonderful mix of everything. Lars , Derya and Helle trotted off to some modern art museum. I hate museums unless its a brewery!
We loved our week in Amsterdam- obviously fantastic to see Lars and Derya. They love living on the canal in the city. They both cycle to work and enjoy inner city life – there is always something going on.
On the last night we took a stroll around the corner from their place and visited the botanical gardens.
Amsterdam is a great city to just wander and explore. With Lars and Derya settled in for some time we will be back.
Love the Dam and goodbye for now.
Explore The World 